Press Release

11th June 2012

Skerries dredging moves a step closer

Dredging work should get underway shortly in the South Mouth of Skerries harbour, after news that the last funding element is in place to complete the £286,000 project.

Shetland Islands Council has been given approval for £71,550 of European Regional Development Funding (ERDF) towards the cost of the works. The scheme will give vessels an improved second option when approaching the harbour in difficult weather conditions.

“This is very welcome news. Subject to finalising the required consents, we can now begin work in Skerries”, said Robert Sinclair, Executive Manager of the SIC’s Capital Programme Service.

“The quantity of material to be removed is relatively small, at around 100 tonnes, but it’s the mobilisation of plant and equipment, and the proximity to an historic wreck, that have added complexity to the project.”

Chair of the SIC’s Harbour Board, Councillor Andrea Manson, said “This is an important step towards improving transport links and accessibility to Skerries. It is one of the community’s main aspirations, and the news will be very well received.”

ENDS

Notes: The Dutch East-Indiaman ‘Kennemerland’ was wrecked on nearby Stoura Stack in 1664. The dredge site is within the zone protected under the Protection of Wrecks Act, 1973. This effectively places a 250 metre radius exclusion zone around the wreck site.